PMH Region Among Confirmed Cases Of West Nile Virus

The total number of confirmed human cases of West Nile virus (WNV) this season has risen to seven.

Manitoba Health, Seniors and Active Living confirmed in late August that, among the new confirmed WNV cases, two were within the Prairie Mountain region. The first case, reported in early August, was in the Southern Health – Santé Sud region. The region of residence may not correspond to the region of exposure.

To date, two of the confirmed patients have required hospitalization for symptoms related to WNV this summer. More information continues to be collected by the department as part of its ongoing surveillance efforts.

Manitobans are reminded the mosquito season is not over. Continued warm and dry conditions are ideal for Culex tarsalis, a carrier of WNV. Culex tarsalis typically feeds between dusk and dawn and often goes unnoticed when biting, and will start feeding earlier as the days shorten in September.

While mosquito numbers are low in most communities, surveillance shows the numbers of infected Culex tarsalis remain high throughout southern Manitoba. It only takes one bite from an infected Culex tarsalis mosquito to be exposed to WNV. The risk for potential human exposure to WNV remains high.

Manitobans can reduce their risk of mosquito bites and potential WNV exposure by:

reducing the amount of time spent outdoors during peak mosquito hours (between dusk and dawn);

using appropriate mosquito repellent;

wearing light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing; and

maintaining door and window screens so they fit tightly and are free of holes.

Manitobans can reduce the number of mosquitoes around their homes by eliminating standing water. To prevent the development of Culex tarsalis mosquitoes, homeowners can: